How to Replace a Fuel Filter in a 1996 Dodge 1500 RAM
by Don BowmanUpdated November 07, 2017
Items you will need
Floor jack
Jack stands
3/8-inch drive ratchet
Set of 3/8-inch drive ratchet and sockets
Common screwdriver
Rag
The fuel filter in a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 is located in the fuel tank. It's called a sock, which fits on the bottom inlet port of the fuel pump. The fuel pump has a 100 to 125 PSI rating. It is sold in module form, which incorporates the fuel-sending unit for the fuel gauge. It can be purchased at most auto-parts stores--a special trip to the dealer is not necessary.
Relieve the fuel pressure by removing the cap on the Schraeder valve on the fuel line to the throttle body. Place the rag over the valve to absorb the small amount of fuel that will be released and press the valve in to release the pressure.
Raise and support the rear of the truck on jack stands. Place the jack stands under the frame to prevent interference with the removal of the tank. Loosen the filler-hose clamp and the vent-hose clamp at the fuel tank. Disconnect the electrical fuel-pump connector aft of the tank. Place the floor jack under the center of the fuel tank. Raise the jack enough to support the fuel tank.
Remove the two bolts securing the fuel-tank straps to the floor, using a 15 mm socket. Lower the fuel tank cautiously enough to gain access to the top of the fuel tank. Disconnect the fuel line and vent line from the top of the fuel-pump module. These lines have press-and-pull connections.
Lower the fuel tank. Remove it from the jack and lay it on the ground. Remove the top valve module by unsnapping it on the sides and lifting it off to be re-used on the new fuel pump and filter. Unscrew the securing neck on the top of the tank.
Lift the fuel -pump module out of the tank and drain the fuel captured in the module back into the tank. Look at the position the fuel filter (sock) is located on the old module. Push the fuel filter on the new module in the same direction.
Install the new module with the fuel-line ends facing the exact same direction as the old unit. Install the new rubber grommet around the lip of the tank. Install the cap ring over the module and push down hard on the module so it seats in the hole. Spin the cap ring on tight. Install the valve module on top of the fuel-pump module and snap it in place.
Place the fuel tank on the jack and raise it enough to connect the fuel and vent lines. Install the tank in reverse order of removal.
Writer Bio
Don Bowman has been writing for various websites and several online magazines since 2008. He has owned an auto service facility since 1982 and has over 45 years of technical experience as a master ASE tech. Bowman has a business degree from Pennsylvania State University and was an officer in the U.S. Army (aircraft maintenance officer, pilot, six Air Medal awards, two tours Vietnam).
